Roman samovar from Pompeii | Photo: © davide.ferro.official
Roman bronze samovar from Pompeii, dating to the 1st century CE. The vessel was used for heating and serving warm liquids, and its design utilized charcoal as a heat source.
Glowing charcoal was placed in a central, hollow chamber to heat the contents of the vessel. The warmed liquid could then be dispensed via a tap adorned with the head of an Eastern barbarian.
The vessel is distinguished by decorative handles in the form of sirens or harpies. Three attachment points served to hold a chain, which allowed the samovar to be carried.
The object is housed in the National Archaeological Museum of Naples.
